Romantic Getaway to the Luberon Region

Lavender Fields Forever

Today was a day of sensory delights and historical exploration, a true embodiment of the Luberon spirit. From the intoxicating fragrance of lavender to the serene echoes of an ancient abbey, every moment felt like a step back in time, a chance to reconnect with the simple beauty of life.

Our day began in Bonnieux, a village perched high on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. We started with breakfast at La Trinquette, a charming restaurant known for its traditional French cuisine and warm hospitality. The café au lait was rich and comforting, and the croissants were flaky and buttery – the perfect fuel for a day of exploration. Fatoumata enjoyed a delightful pain au chocolat, while I savored the classic tartine with butter and confiture.

After breakfast, we set off to Château Lavande, a place I had been eagerly anticipating since planning this trip. As we approached, the air was filled with the unmistakable scent of lavender, a fragrance that always reminds me of summer afternoons back home in Mali. The castle itself was beautiful, a stone structure surrounded by seemingly endless fields of purple. It was like stepping into a postcard, a scene so perfect it almost felt unreal.


Explore the charming Château Lavande in Bonnieux, a stunning castle surrounded by lavender fields and rich history, perfect for memorable experiences.

We wandered through the lavender fields, taking photos and simply soaking in the atmosphere. The bees were buzzing lazily, and the sun was warm on our skin. Fatoumata, ever the romantic, couldn't resist picking a small bouquet of lavender to bring back to our guesthouse. I captured countless photos, trying to preserve the memory of this idyllic place. It was a moment of pure serenity, a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and simply appreciate the beauty of nature.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the simplest of moments, like wandering through a lavender field on a sunny afternoon.

Leaving Château Lavande, we drove towards Saint-Hilaire Ancienne Abbaye, an ancient abbey with a rich history dating back to the 13th century. Nestled near Ménerbes, this former Carmelite convent offered a glimpse into the region's religious past. The abbey has seen its share of turmoil, from conflicts with religious authorities to being sold off during the French Revolution.


Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Saint-Hilaire Ancienne Abbaye, a 13th-century Carmelite monastery nestled in the heart of Provence's Luberon region, offering a tranquil escape.

As we walked through the ancient stone walls, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and reverence. The abbey exuded a sense of peace and tranquility, a place where time seemed to stand still. We explored the cloisters, the chapel, and the surrounding gardens, imagining what life must have been like for the monks who once lived here. The architecture was fascinating, a mix of Romanesque and Gothic styles, reflecting the abbey's long and varied history.

Fatoumata was particularly interested in the abbey's history, especially its connection to the Carmelite order. She had read about their origins in Palestine and their eventual arrival in Europe. We spent a long time discussing the abbey's significance, its role in the local community, and the challenges it had faced over the centuries. It was a reminder of the enduring power of faith and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage.

For lunch, we stopped at La Terrasse Des Cigales in Mérindol, a restaurant known for its traditional Provençal cuisine and beautiful outdoor terrace. The restaurant was bustling with activity, filled with locals and tourists alike, all eager to savor the flavors of the region. We started with a salade niçoise, a classic Provençal dish with fresh tomatoes, olives, anchovies, and hard-boiled eggs. For our main courses, Fatoumata ordered the agneau aux herbes, lamb roasted with herbs, while I opted for the daube provençale, a slow-cooked beef stew with red wine and vegetables. The food was delicious, the flavors rich and authentic. The terrace was shaded and cool, a perfect respite from the midday sun. We lingered over our meal, enjoying the lively atmosphere and the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It was exactly what the doctor ordered.


Experience exquisite French cuisine at La Terrasse Des Cigales in Mérindol, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.

In the late afternoon, we sought out Bar Nulle Part Ailleurs in Lauris, hoping to unwind with a refreshing drink. Unfortunately, it seems the bar is permanently closed, which was a bit of a disappointment. We had hoped to enjoy some local wine and perhaps listen to some live music. Instead, we decided to head back to our guesthouse and relax by the pool.


Experience the charm of Bar Nulle Part Ailleurs in Lauris, where delightful drinks and a warm atmosphere create unforgettable moments.

For dinner, we decided to try Restaurant Le Bigre in Mérindol, a place recommended by our guesthouse owner. The restaurant offered a modern take on French cuisine, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. We started with tapas. I ordered seiches grillées à la plancha (grilled cuttlefish) while Fatoumata enjoyed a salade de poulpe (octopus salad). The atmosphere was lively and the staff was friendly. It was a delightful way to end a perfect day in Luberon.


Experience exquisite French cuisine at Restaurant Le Bigre in Mérindol, where local flavors meet exceptional service in a charming setting.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and charm of Luberon. The lavender fields, the ancient abbey, and the delicious food have all left an indelible mark on my soul. It's moments like these that remind me why I love to travel, to explore new cultures, and to connect with the world around me.

Tomorrow marks our final day in this enchanting region. Our itinerary includes a visit to the Pont Julien, an ancient Roman bridge, and a stop at Le Nageur. We plan to have breakfast at L'AUBERGE DES CARRIERES LUBERON, lunch at Cafe de France, and a farewell dinner at La Bastide. Before heading to dinner, we will visit Le Potager Du Chateau for some shopping. It's bittersweet to think that our time here is coming to an end, but I know that the memories we've made will last a lifetime. I am looking forward to sharing more stories from our travels soon. Until then, au revoir!